Using the littleBits proprietary electronic building blocks (called bits), children ages 8 and up can build their own R2-D2. The kit comes with everything needed, including six bits (control hub, DC motor, power, proximity sensor, servo, and wire), 20 droid parts, three sticker sheets, three wheels, and a battery & cable. The finished droid stands 12-inches tall x 16-inches wide x 6-inches long and weighs approximately 4 lbs.

littleBit’s free Droid Inventor Training App (available for iOS and Android devices) provides both building guidance and access to more than 16 different missions for the newly created toy. Once built, the R2 unit can operate in several different modes, including Drive Mode, Self-Navigation Mode, and Force Mode (yes, THAT Force and yes, it IS as cool as it sounds). But the pièce de résistance is a built-in sound module that allows each droid to emit 20 sounds taken directly from Star Wars films.

The Droid Inventor Kit checks in at $99.95 USD and is compatible with other littleBits kits, allowing children to customize their droids with new features and functionality.

Each week on Toy Tales we feature our Pop Culture Nod of the Week, a post that highlights our favorite modern-day things with a nostalgic flair. In recognition of upcoming gift-giving occasions, here’s a round-up of some of our favorite items from the past year that we think make for fantastic presents. Read more →

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